MacSweeper
MacSweeper is a potentially dangerous program that can inflict damage on your Mac system. Evaluate the facts about MacSweeper and take the steps for protecting your files.
MacSweeper isn’t really a virus or worm but it can be as lethal. Basically what it does is misinform the user, stating that there are viruses in the system when there are none. To detect and eliminate this threat you should be aware of the vital facts.
How the Program is installed
When a computer user downloads a program at the KIVVI website, the application is installed without their knowledge. Subsequently it will check the software in the system. It will then inform the user that some of these applications are dangerous or contain spyware. It will recommend their deletion. When one tries to remove the said programs a message will appear stating MacSweeper is a trial version and cannot do the job.
To successfully eliminate the threat financial information must be handed out in exchange for the serial key worth about $40. Losing personal information is only one problem. The other is if the user persists in removing the “spyware infected” application by force, system errors might emerge.
It is unclear as to whether one will actually get a key when payment is made. Even if that were the case there are still problems. One of them is that there is no guarantee that the program will work when the key arrives.
Removal and Prevention
Most of the antivirus software developers have released fixes to combat the rogue application. If you update your spyware / antivirus program the threat will be identified and removed. To be certain run the scanner in full or thorough mode. Among the vendors that can remove it are Symantec, Intego VirusBarrier and Sunbelt Software. To remove them effectively you should check each website.
This will take longer, but it ensures that there will be no traces left in your computer. Most Apple applications have uninstallers included. There are also third party vendors that sell software removers. Be sure to download only from well known sites. Although the files in reputable sites are scanned before being uploaded, you should still check them for infection. When you download a program, run a scan prior to installation.
Of course the best way to avoid the problem is to steer clear of the website http://www.macsweeper.com. Currently the site is disabled. However, the KIVVI software site is still around. It has also released a statement on its website claiming that the program is not a spyware.
The threat posed by this program cannot be taken lightly. To some it seems nothing more than an annoyance. However it is best to take the necessary precautions.
Other Information
This rogue application is said to be the first one for the Macintosh. It was uncovered on 17 January 2008.
KIVVI software publishes a similar looking program for Windows called Cleanator. If you are running the Windows operating system, you should remove this program as well. Its potential for damage is unclear but it is best to remove them.
The Macintosh has long been considered virus free. The presence of an application like MacSweeper, however, shows that one can never be too sure. By taking precautions, you will avoid loss of data.
